Two heroines festival takes place in Phuket - AsiaRooms.com

AsiaRooms.com reports a special event takes place in Phuket every March in honour of Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon, the island's "two heroines".

Also known by their original names Chan and Mook, the two sisters are credited with leading the defence of Phuket against Burmese invaders over a five-week period in 1785.

Popular belief states that they rallied the Siamese fighters by dressing up as male soldiers.

After the Burmese troops were defeated, Chan and Mook were honoured by King Rama I with the names Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon.

A statue known as the Heroines Monument now stands on the road between Phuket Town and the island's airports, providing a focal point for the yearly celebration.

The two heroines festival takes place on March 13th to pay tribute to the legendary bravery of the women.

People staying in Phuket hotels can expect a day of performances and markets arranged in their honour.

Although special events are organised all over the island, much of the action centres around the monument.

Travellers staying in Thailand hotels may also like to visit Phuket for its famous beach resorts, such as Karon, Kata and Patong.